Baltimore-based artist Icarus Phoenix has released a new single titled "Hatillo 2," further establishing the project's commitment to emotionally resonant songwriting. This track follows last month's critically acclaimed full-length album, "I Should Have Known the Things You Never Said," which was explored in detail on Obscure Sound.
Drew Danburry, the group's lead guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, described the track as stemming from a poignant personal experience he had while in the Hatillo 2 neighborhood of San Jose, Costa Rica. In a recent statement, he shared insights into the song's emotional underpinnings, noting, "Although easier to digest as a metaphor for the end of a relationship and written with that intention in mind, this song was actually written based on an experience I had. It involves an actual death that I witnessed and reflects on that particular relationship."
Danburry emphasizes the complexity of human connections in his lyricism, aiming to avoid simplistic good versus bad portrayals of individuals. He refers to "Hatillo 2" as a "keystone" track that complements and enriches the preceding album's narrative.
Musically, the track showcases warm guitar melodies and lush piano arrangements that support a reflective vocal performance. The lyrics evoke a contemplative atmosphere, highlighted in lines such as, "It's strange to me how we'll only be / The best of friends or worst enemies, nothing in-between."
Listeners can stream "Hatillo 2" along with other emerging singles featured this month on Obscure Sound's Emerging Singles Spotify playlist.